Blog | Legacy Building Solutions

The 20-Year View: How Material Choices Impact Long-Term Operational Costs

Written by Legacy Building Solutions | Dec 4, 2025 4:43:52 PM

The building materials you choose today determine how much you'll spend on maintenance, repairs, energy, and unexpected problems for the next 20+ years.

Cost is always an important factor in new building design. But what kind of return on that investment will you see? Project owners should look beyond the initial price tag to understand total cost of ownership.

Some building materials and techniques cost more than others. Less time spent from project start to occupancy saves on labor costs and reduces risk of project delays. However, material choices also directly impact operational costs because they vary in features and durability.

Think about the total lifecycle costs of your structure. You’ll make cost-effective choices up front that will save you money and headaches for decades to come.  

Building Materials Impact Structural Performance

Material strength and durability determine long-term structural performance. Extreme weather, high humidity, and corrosive conditions can quickly devastate your ROI with increased maintenance and repairs.

This is where Hybrid steel and fabric buildings excel. They combine the strength of rigid solid steel I-beam framing with PVC fabric cladding to create tough, permanent structures. These buildings are engineered for long-term dependability.

Legacy buildings ensure structural reliability wherever you’re located. EpoxxiShieldTM coatings protect all exposed steel surfaces, and ExxoTecTM fabric is impervious to moisture, corrosion, and rot. They’re also individually engineered to withstand extreme winds, rain, hail, hurricanes, snow loads, and seismic events.

Building Materials Impact Functional Performance 

A building that's well-designed for its purpose operates more efficiently, avoiding costly modifications or upgrades. Some construction materials limit architectural flexibility. Legacy buildings can be fully customized, allowing for maximum design creativity and functionality. Feature-rich design is essential for maximum ROI.

Exterior materials choices affect long-term costs for maintenance as well as durable aesthetics. Legacy’s PVC fabric can be incorporated with other materials, if desired, to match the appearance of existing buildings or to create a unique visual aesthetic. Fabric can also accommodate graphics to augment or take the place of traditional signage to establish unique branding.

This translates to a more sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable building for people and livestock.

Construction Quality and Techniques Impact Durability

No matter the materials, quality construction is non-negotiable. Work quality and methods also affect building longevity and operation costs. Legacy structures can be completed in as little as one-third the time of other methods, giving you faster occupancy and unmatched quality. 

Maintenance Can Make or Break Operational Costs 

Consistent upkeep is essential, but the less maintenance your building needs, the lower your costs will be. Some buildings, like PEMBs, are vulnerable to corrosion and require expensive, periodic repairs.

Legacy buildings require minimal maintenance, thanks to their inherent resistance to moisture, corrosion, and rot. The PVC fabric is tough and flexible, able to withstand daily wear and tear. If damage does occur, modular construction allows for quick, on-site panel replacement.

Hybrid steel and fabric construction also reduces the need for regular repainting or exterior refurbishments, which can be a significant cost over time. Your building will look great for years, protecting your professional reputation.

Legacy Makes the Long-Term Difference

Whether you're building a sports center, storage facility, or aviation hangar, your material choices will define your long-term operational costs. Legacy buildings provide the design flexibility and proven, innovative materials that stand the test of time.